Vevey market is undoubtedly one of the most picturesque markets in the region. Popular with residents and tourists alike, it has for hundreds of years served as the fulcrum of trade in the Riviera. Centred in the Grand Place and spreading out through the adjacent side streets, stall-holders offer an abundance of local produce, crafts and the more mundane necessities of home life.
The market has shared the square with town centre parking facilities for decades. As pressure for more market stalls and parking spaces has grown, tension has developed between tradesmen, patrons and the municipality. This week, the municipality announced that in order to preserve the charm of the market, the safety of shoppers and to create a lake front position for the market, the parking will be moved to one side of the square away from the lakeside.
This much-needed improvement is being introduced in time for the regular Tuesday market on 6 May. Not that an excuse is ever needed to visit the market, however, stall-holders have invited visitors and shoppers to share “un verre d’amitié” on Saturday 10 May.